Legionella, PAT, and EICR — What Landlords Need to Know in 2025

Staying compliant with safety regulations is one of the most important responsibilities for landlords in Scotland. Not only is it a legal requirement, but it also protects your tenants and your investment. As we move through 2025, here’s a refresher on three key checks every landlord must be aware of: Legionella Risk Assessments, Portable Appliance Testing (PAT), and Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR).

💧 Legionella Risk Assessment

• All landlords are required to assess the risk of Legionella in their rental properties.

• This doesn’t always mean paying for an expensive inspection — in many cases, landlords can carry out a basic assessment themselves, though professional assessments are strongly recommended.

• Risks are higher in properties with water tanks, long pipe runs, or where water can stagnate.

• Tenants should be advised to run taps and showers regularly, especially after periods of vacancy.

✅ Tip for 2025: Councils are paying closer attention to documentation, so always keep a written record of your Legionella risk assessment and any actions taken.

🔌 Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)

• Landlords must ensure that all electrical appliances provided in a rental property are safe to use.

• While annual PAT testing is recommended, the Scottish Association of Landlords advises appliances can be retested up to every 5 years if deemed low risk.

• You must supply tenants with evidence of testing, especially for high-use items such as kettles, toasters, and microwaves.

✅ Tip for 2025: If you choose not to renew a PAT certificate annually, your agent will generally require you to sign a disclaimer.

⚡ Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)

• Since December 2015, all rental properties in Scotland must have a valid EICR covering the fixed wiring, sockets, and consumer unit.

• Reports are valid for 5 years, unless the electrician advises a shorter timescale due to the condition of the installation.

• Any C1 (danger present) or C2 (potentially dangerous) issues flagged in an EICR must be remedied immediately before the property can be legally let.

✅ Tip for 2025: Many EICRs carried out in 2019/20 are now expiring — make sure yours is up to date to avoid enforcement action or tenancy delays.

⚖️ What This Means for Landlords

Failing to keep up with compliance isn’t just a risk to your tenants — it can lead to hefty fines, invalid insurance, and in some cases, criminal liability. A good letting agent will manage these checks for you, ensuring nothing is missed.

✅ Our Advice

At The Letting Experts Edinburgh, we handle compliance on behalf of landlords, giving you peace of mind and protecting your investment.

📞 Contact Sean McMahon – The Edinburgh Property Expert today to arrange a free compliance health check for your property. We are members of the Scottish Association of Landlords in order to stay on top of compliance requirements, so you don't need to worry.